His Holiness the 17th Karmapa in Germany
May 28th to June 9th, 2014
Itinerary, Background, and Major Teaching References ( useful any time and anywhere )
http://www.karmapa-germany.de/en/
See also
http://kagyuoffice.org/
See also Karmapa Teachings channel on Youtube
http://www.youtube.com/user/Karmapateachings
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2jdsG2BJ18
Summary: His Holiness the Seventeenth Karmapa Orgyen Trinle Dorje is one of the foremost lineage holders in the Buddhist world, and specifically he leads the Karma Kagyu lineage, one of the lineages that directly descends from the great adept Milarepa. He is held by the Tibetans as being a powerful manifestation of Avalokitesvara, the Buddha of Compassion.
This Spring HH Karmapa visits Europe for the first time, giving major transmissions and addressing secular issues. Parts of this visit will be accessible to all worldwide via webcast.
The current article provides complete details on the schedule and detailed background from official sources ( which I do not represent - KT ). The article includes links to detailed foundational teachings by Very Venerable Thrangu Rinpoche, a principal teacher to HH Karmapa, and two key book references.
See also
Karmapa in Europa 2014 / S.H. der XVII. Karmapa in Deutschland, 28. Mai bis 9. Juni 2014
Live-Übertragung der Veranstaltungen mit S.H. Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje Bewahrer der Buddha-Aktivitäten
at
http://deutschland.tribe.net/thread/9959a203-892a-41c7-95db-43d9daa750aa
With the support granted by the Central Government of India and the Tibetan Administration in Exile, we have the great pleasure and honor to announce the first visit to Europe by His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje.
Between the 28th May and 9th June, 2014 His Holiness will visit Germany in the heart of Europe, where he is expected with great joy. His first, historic journey to the continent will begin at Kamalashila Institute®, his main seat in Europe, and continue to the German capital of Berlin.
The Karma Kagyu Gemeinschaft Deutschland e.V. is delighted to invite all students, friends and interested public to join in this happy occasion and turn it into a successful, festive event.
http://www.karmapa-germany.de/en/live-webcast-2/
Live broadcast of the events with H.H. Karmapa 2014 in Europe
We contacted the Kagyu Office of H.H. Karmapa and can announce, that the events at Kamalashila / Nürburgring* and Berlin / Estrel Convention Center* will be available via Webcast* online.
The website http://kagyuoffice.org will broadcast the Webcast. We will send you the direct link to the webcast, as soon as it is available to us.
Thank you to all people involved for making this possible – it is a great gift!
* The ritual sections of the empowerments will be broadcasted only via audio. Webcast viewers cannot receive the empowerment via the webcast.
PressEMBARGO: APR 22, 08:00 am GMT/UTC
Press release
EU/Tibet/Lama/Buddhism/Environment/social justice/sustainability/Green Buddha
The 17th Karmapa - Face and voice of 21st century Tibetan Buddhism visits Europe
It is with great joy that Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike await the arrival in Europe of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje.The young and charismatic leader of the Tibetan Buddhist Karma Kagyu school will visit Germany between 28th May and 9th June, 2014, on his first ever journey to Europe. The most important stops on this tour will be the European seat of the Karmapas in Langenfeld/Eifel, and the German capital, Berlin. The guiding theme of his fortnight-long programme is "The future begins now!"
During his German tour his programme will include both traditional Buddhist teachings and secular events concerning current social issues such as Buddhism and the environment, the significance of compassion in a globalised world, and an encounter with artists exploring the theme of freedom of thought.
This youthful and charismatic Lama wants to address the young people of his own generation, in order to engender hope and faith in their future, at a time when the problems facing the world may often seem insurmountable and solutions rare.
The Karmapa is far from seeing himself as a religious missionary; rather he sees himself as a voice representing a source of ancient wisdom from the East in an intercultural dialogue with the modern world.
The 17th Karmapa is regarded by many as the future hope of the Tibetan people. He is venerated as the third most significant representative of Tibetan Buddhism, after the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama. Granted refugee status and hospitality by the Government of India, the 28-year old Karmapa lives in the immediate vicinity of the 14th Dalai Lama's exile seat in Dharamsala, North India, and shares a very close relationship with the Tibetan spiritual leader.
Fully supporting the Dalai Lama’s 'middle way' policy of keeping dialogue open with China, the Karmapa himself maintains an apolitical stance, taking no part in active politics. His focus, rather, is on how Buddhist principles such as wisdom, compassion and interconnectedness can be brought to bear on everyday life in the 21st century. He is critical of the culture of consumerism which dominates much of the world today, urging personal responsibility and active engagement for sustainability, and protection of the environment in light of climate change.
He is an advocate of social justice and gender equality and a commentator on other pressing issues in society at large. Having heard of its reputation as an environmentally conscious country, he is especially eager to visit Germany. He is also looking forward to an exchange of views and experiences on major issues confronting society with members of other faiths, particularly Christian leaders. He hopes to exchange views and share experiences that could be beneficial for the daily lives of Tibetans, in exile as well as in Tibet itself.
Throughout the world, the Karmapa has attracted respect and support because he is known to be someone who “walks the talk“, not only advocating change but taking active steps towards the realisation of his vision. He has spoken out frankly about the destruction of the environment and the effects of climate change in his homeland, urging the international community to work together to protect Tibet’s fragile environment, since at least a third of the world’s population depends on water from the Himalayan region. This active commitment earned him the title of 'Green Buddha' when he visited the headquarters of the WWF in Washington in 2011.
As leader of one of the most important lineages in Tibetan Buddhism, the 17th Karmapa embodies 900 years of tradition, yet his focus is increasingly set on the global challenges of the 21st century.
ger/sk/20140422
Contact: Email presse@karmapa-europe.de
International Quotes:
Times-Magazin: The World's Next Top Lama, Karmapa Ugyen Trinley Dorje: the hip-hop lama ready to lead the Tibetan struggle,
Times Asia: A rising Star,
GEO: Der neue Dalai Lama - Ein Erleuchteter in Ausbildung,
GEO: Der einzige Plan B der Tibeter
Le Monde: Le karmapa, le protégé du dalaï-lama,
WWF: The green Buddha
Cinema-Doku: Living Buddha
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogyen_Trinley_Dorje
Ogyen Trinley Dorje is supported by the majority of the Kagyu hierarchy,[14] including two lamas who have played a role in finding previous Karmapas: Khentin Tai Situ Rinpoche and Goshir Gyaltsab Rinpoche (a fourth such lama, the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul, died early on during the controversy). Orgyen Trinley Dorje has been enthroned at Tsurphu Monastery.
Other high Kagyu lamas who support Ogyen Trinley Dorje include the Ninth Traleg Kyabgon Rinpoche; the Ninth Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche; the Seventh Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche and his Nalandabodhi organization; the Twelfth Surmang Trungpa Rinpoche; the Seventh Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche; the Third Tenga Rinpoche; the Third Bardor Tulku Rinpoche; the Venerable Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche; the Venerable Bokar Rinpoche; the Venerable Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche (abbot of Karma Triyana Dharmachakra); Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and his organization, Shambhala International; the Venerable Drupon Rinpoche, and Lama Norlha Rinpoche, among others. He is also recognized as Karmapa by the current Dalai Lama.
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Introduction to the Kagyu Lineage
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kagyu
The founder of the Kagyu lineage was the Mahasiddha Tilopa (988-1069), who lived in Northern India. He is considered as having received a direct transmission from the primordial Buddha Vajradhara. In this context the Kagyu lineage has originated from the very essence of reality itself and thus transcends all space and time.
Viewed from another level of understanding he also had human teachers, from whom he received four special transmissions, The Four Oral Instructions, for which he became the lineage holder. Some etymologies of the name "Kagyu" consider it as an abbreviation of Lineage of Four Oral Instructions. When Tilopa's transmission is linked directly to Vajradhara, it is called the "direct transmission" but when it is traced to his human teachers, it is referred to as the "indirect transmission."
These teachings were passed from Tilopa to his disciple, the Mahasiddha Naropa (1016–1100) and they were systematised as the Six Yogas of Naropa, meditations that are considered an essential teaching of the Kagyu lineage. Naropa transmitted his knowledge to Marpa Chökyi Lodrö (1012–1097), the great translator, who journeyed from Tibet to India in order to receive instructions and who subsequently returned to Tibet and spread the teachings of the Dharma widely.
Marpa's most important disciple was Jetsun Milarepa (1040–1123). He became one of Tibet's great yogis. His life began in difficult circumstances due to his father's early death, his vengeance upon his dishonest aunt and uncle, and his subsequent regret—which led him to an earnest desire to enter the way of the Dharma. His story is widely known among Tibetans. Through his perseverance and ability to accept all circumstances, he achieved profound realization of the ultimate nature of reality. His teachings are recorded in the 100,000 songs of Milarepa and other collections.
Milarepa's teachings were carried on by Gampopa (1079–1153), the physician from Dakpo. He first studied under the Kadampa tradition, which is a gradual and systematic path. At a later age, he met Milarepa and practicing under him received and realized the true meaning of the complete teachings. Since that time, the lineage has been known as the Dakpo Kagyu. It is from Gampopa that the first Kagyu schools originated: the Karma Kagyu, Tselpa Kagyu, Barom Kagyu, and Phagdru Kagyu.
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The Four Dharmas Of Gampopa
by Thrangu Rinpoche
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings/4dharmas.pdf
"Grant your blessings to myself and all beings that our minds may go to the Dharma.Grant your blessings that the Dharma may become a path.Grant your blessings that the path may clarify bewilderment. Grant your blessings that bewilderment may arise as wisdom."
Despite their brevity, these lines express the entirety of the Buddha's teachings. In this masterful exposition, Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche illuminates their meaning.
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The Very Venerable Khenpo Thrangu Rinpoche
[ A High Abbot of the Karma Kagyu Lineage ]
Large set of teachings openly available at
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings.html
E.G. :
The Four Noble Truths Rinpoche speaks on the first teachings of the Buddha
http://www.rinpoche.com/fornob.html
Buddhist Conduct: The Ten Virtuous Actions
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings/conduct.pdf
The Three Vehicles of Buddhist Practice
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings/3vehicles.pdf
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S.H. XVII. KARMAPA IN EUROPE 2014
Germany Tour May 28th to June 9th
Kamalashila Institut®, Langenfeld/Eifel May 28th to June 1st
Berlin June 4th to June 9th
Event Organizer: Karma Kagyü Gemeinschaft Deutschland e.V.
Event Program:
FRANKFURT TIBETHAUS
Kaufungerstr. 4, 60486 Frankfurt /M.
May 28th 11:00 AM Press Conference with S.H. XVII Karmapa
KAMALASHILA INSTITUT®
Kirchstr. 22a, 56729 Langenfeld
May 28th 4:00 PM Welcoming S.H. XVII Karmapa in Kamalashila Institut®
June 1st 09:30 AM Inauguration of the Stupa in the Parc of Kamalashila Institut®
NÜRBURGRING
Bitburger Event-Center,
Otto-Flimm-Str., 53520 Nürburg
May 29th 09:30 AM Teaching: The Short Ngöndro – Part I
11:00 AM Teaching: The Short Ngöndro – Part II
03:00 PM Teaching: Guru Yoga Practice
May 30th 09:30 AM Teaching: The Mahamudra Lineage Prayer – Part I
11:00 AM Teaching: The Mahamudra Lineage Prayer – Part I
03:00 PM Empowerment: The 84 Mahasiddhas
May 31st 09:30 AM Empowerment: Dorje Sempa
02:00 PM Empowerment: Medicine-Buddha
BERLIN
Estrel Convention Center,
Sonnenalle, 12057 Berlin
June 5th 07:30 PM Public Talk: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern World - Heart-Advice for a Meaningful Life
June 6th 09:00 PM Visit to Bodhicharya Centre Berlin
14:30 PM Teaching: Mind Training – Taming the Mind and Cultivating Loving Kindness
07:30 PM Public Talk: Buddhism and the Environment – Living in Harmony with our Planet
June 7th 02:30 PM Public Talk: Changing the World from the Inside Out – Love and Compassion for a Globalised World
07:30 PM Teaching: Developing Inner Peace – The Art of Meditation with Cultural Events
June 8th 10:00 AM Empowerment: Karma Pakshi
02:00 PM Young People meet the Karmapa - The Future Is Now:
Today’s Youth are the Hope for a Better Tomorrow
His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje
Upholder of Buddha Activities
http://www.karmapa-germany.de/en/karmapa/
The first Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa (1110-1193) began the system of recognising reincarnate Lamas in Tibet over 900 years ago when he predicted his own rebirth. “Karmapa” in Tibetan means one who upholds the activities of the Buddhas. The Karmapa also founded the Karma Kagyu branch of the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. All sixteen Karmapas became masters with special qualities, highly respected and revered by all the different schools of Tibetan Buddhism and by the people of Tibet and the Himalayan region.
Some of the Karmapas even became teachers to the Mongolian and Chinese Emperors. When the 16th Karmapa fled Tibet and arrived in Sikkim, the King of Sikkim offered him land to build a large monastic centre, which later became Rumtek Monastery.
His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, was born in a remote corner of Eastern Tibet to a nomadic family in 1985. He was found by following instructions contained in a prediction letter left by the 16th Karmapa and his identity was confirmed not only by Tai Situ Rinpoche and Gyaltsap Rinpoche, but also by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. In 1992, the Karmapa was enthroned at Tsurphu, the traditional seat of the Karmapa lineage in Tibet.
Even at an early age, he showed signs of becoming a leader of great strength and learning. He gave his first public empowerment at the age of eight and soon mastered all the teachings that the monks at Tsurphu could offer. He started to guide the renovation of Tsurphu monastery, which was in the process of being rebuilt. He also constructed a shedra, or monastic college, at Tsurphu while guiding monasteries and centres around the world.
The young Karmapa became a magnet for devotees from all over Tibet and many foreign countries. He also started to recognise the reincarnations of other important Kagyu lamas such as Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche.
At the age of fourteen, the Karmapa decided to take the most dangerous and challenging course of action by escaping from Tibet to India for two main reasons. Firstly, he was not allowed to bring his teachers from India to Tibet and could not undertake his traditional training as a spiritual leader. Secondly, the Karmapa saw signs that he would be used against His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
The world gazed in awe when the fourteen-year-old Karmapa arrived in Dharamsala at the beginning of the 21st century and took refuge at the feet of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The Government and people of India accepted him as an honoured guest, and since then he has lived at Gyuto Monastery in Dharamsala, receiving a traditional monastic education and all the necessary transmissions, under the guidance of Kagyu masters and H.H. the Dalai Lama, who appointed Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche as his main tutor.
Besides being a scholar and teacher in all areas of Tibetan Buddhist studies, his poems, paintings, calligraphy, and especially his plays and songs, composed and directed with the artists of the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, are highly appreciated. He enjoys studying the languages and cultures of different Asian and Western civilisations and has taken classes in Sanskrit, Hindi, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and English. He is also interested in modern science and has actively participated in the Mind and Life Conferences with H.H. the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala.
The Karmapa took the responsibility of leading the Karma Kagyu School of Buddhism at an early age and within a short time has brought many reforms and progress in the study and discipline at Karma Kagyu monasteries and nunneries. The Karmapa took the Kagyu Monlam as the main platform for his activities. This yearly prayer meeting in Bodhgaya draws thousands of monks, nuns, and followers from all over the world, and especially from the Himalayan region...
The International Kagyu Monlam Chenmo is a marvel not only for its inspiring prayers but also for its discipline and international participation. The prayers and teachings are simultaneously translated into 12 languages and web-cast worldwide.
In 2007, after several years as a vegetarian, His Holiness asked his monasteries to stop serving any kind of meat in their dining halls. He explained that if we were to have genuine compassion towards animals and the aspiration to ease their suffering, we should also try to do this in practice. At the end of his teaching, thousands of hands rose up from monks, nuns, and of lay people, making a commitment to become vegetarian. This is a wonderful demonstration of the way he teaches by example.
The Karmapa has also made a great difference in the education of the monastic colleges. He has changed the structure of the annual Kagyu Gunchö, the Winter Debates, where the monastic colleges gather together for a month to study and debate Buddhist philosophy. These days the Kagyu Winter Debates include a debating tournament with awards to the best colleges, best individual debaters, and most enthusiastic student. During this time His Holiness gives teachings on an important Kagyu philosophical text and the debates are followed by a three-day conference.
In 2014, the Karmapa made history by instituting an annual Arya Kshema Winter Dharma Gathering for Karma Kagyu nuns and by extending their access to rigorous education for nuns. Around 300 nuns participated. The nuns not only debated but took charge of all activities including rituals, chanting, and disciplining the whole gathering. This is but one of the examples illustrating how the Karmapa works towards empowering women in every field.
In 2009 at a TED conference in Mysore, the Karmapa declared that it is the responsibility of spiritual leaders to take a leading role in addressing such social issues as the environmental crisis and women’s issues. He himself has committed to doing so personally, while also inspiring others to follow suit.
The Karmapa sees environmental protection as synonymous with Dharma practice. He has said that ultimately, he would like Tibetan Buddhist monasteries to become leaders in their own community on environmental issues, especially as the Himalayan communities begin to face the enormous consequences of climate change. In 2009, he founded, and still chairs, Khoryug (“environment” in Tibetan), an association of eco-Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas.
Today, the association consists of over fifty-five Buddhist monasteries and nunneries that implement environmental projects across the Himalayan region. Along with Environmental Guidelines, the association has also produced a popular booklet called 108 Things You Can Do to Protect the Earth. Beyond the Himalayas, he encourages people in the developed world to use fewer resources and to simplify their lives.
The Karmapa is a regular and popular visitor to Tibetan schools and colleges. He has become an example of courage, dedication, and a strong upholder of authentic traditions while staying open to positive modern influences for Tibetans in general and its youth in particular. Tibetans living in Tibet call the Dalai Lama, Panchen Lama, and Karmapa, the sun, the moon, and the star of Tibet. The Karmapa’s engagement with the younger generation has produced two important books: The Future is Now and The Heart is Noble. The Karmapa has said many times that he feels a deep connection with today’s youth and likes to engage them in discussions and dialogue.
The Karmapa has also participated in many inter-religious dialogues and Buddhist conferences where he champions environment issues, women’s issues, youth issues, and promotes non-sectarianism along with respect for all spiritual paths.
He is traditional, authentic, innovative, and artistic in his way of doing things. As an example, in January 2014, he performed the Guru Padma Sambhava lama dance in Bodhgaya, which was done exactly in the most authentic traditional way. However, he invited nuns to take part in the sacred dances, something that had never happened before in the Karma Kagyu tradition. These dances are one of the most blessed and magnificent religious performances in Tibetan Buddhist culture.
His Holiness the 16th Karmapa travelled to many places in Europe and America establishing many centres and groups. Subsequently, followers and supporters of the Karmapa have repeatedly requested the 17th Karmapa to visit them. In May 2008, he made his first trip to the West, traveling to the United States, where he taught at many Dharma centres under his guidance as well as in large halls and arenas. He visited the US again in 2011.
Now, in 2014, he is making his first trip to Europe, fulfilling his long cherished wish to visit the continent. As did his predecessor, the 17th Karmapa also feels a strong personal connection to Europe. He often says that he feels that in one of his former lives, he was born as a farmer in Europe.
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Book Reference on Foundational Buddhist Principles for Newcomers
The following small book, "Heartfelt Advice", is a key text for newcomers to Buddhism. It is written by a Sanskrit scholar, retreatant and tantric abbot, Lama Dudjom Dorjee [ Karma Kagyu lineage ], and he conveys the essential Great Way / Mahayana and tantric Buddhist worldview very directly to all.
"Heartfelt Advice" is a great book because it saves a lot of time and prevents a lot of confusion. The text provides a self-contained, clear, extremely accessible and functional gateway to understanding the overall Buddhist teaching in terms of core classical principles for personal practice.
This book is based entirely on classical teaching of many centuries, and speaks straight to the point, without any casual sidetracks, dilutions or digressions. It is very concentrated and useful long term as a set of continuing reminders for self-managing Buddhists of any Mahayana Buddhist approach in an unsupportive, non-meditative, non-Buddhist muggle culture.
Thus, this book of wise counsel is extraordinarily useful for contemporary western readers. Lama Dudjom Dorje, direct representative of His Holiness the Karmapa, has been teaching in the West for many years, and he ably covers a broad array of topics for all Buddhist practitioners in the simplest and most direct terms.
This book is strongly recommended by major Buddhist teachers guiding many practitioners in the West. All that is required to benefit is straightforward English and a willingness to reflect on oneself, on life, and on karma.
Heartfelt Advice [Paperback]
Lama Dudjom Dorjee (Author)
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Snow Lion; 1 edition (March 16, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1559393467
http://www.amazon.com/Heartfelt-Advice-Lama-Dudjom-Dorjee/dp/1559393467/
"A terrific example of the traditional genre of shal-dam, or life advice, written for contemporary North Americans. This small book touches lightly on profound topics, gently suggesting ways of viewing the world and one's existence in it in a radically new way. The ninety-five short sections—many less than a single page—address foundational ideas of the Buddhist path such as renunciation, impermanence, and cause and effect."—Alexander Gardner, Buddhadharma: The Practitioner's Quarterly
"Heartfelt Advice, from the uniquely qualified scholar and meditation master Ven. Lama Dudjom Dorjee, is a wonderful treasure for Western Dharma practitioners. Anyone who comes into contact with this comprehensive collection of key Buddhist teachings will receive the gift of priceless wisdom." —Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, author of Mind beyond Death [ and tantric Buddhist guru of the Kagyu lineage ]
"Whoever reads this book will receive blessings and benefit. . . . [Lama Dudjom Dorjee] is both scholarly and a highly accomplished practitioner." —Ven. Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche [ tantric Buddhist abbot of the Kagyu lineage ]
"Heartfelt Advice provides a brilliant picture of the depth and breadth of Buddhist meditation. This book is a masterful integration of Buddhist teachings and how they can be applied in difficult life situations. This book provides a unique view formed from his experiences as a Tibetan refuge, Lama scholar, father, and husband. After thirty years of teaching around the world, Heartfelt Advice is a gift to behold." —Dr. William Bradshaw, PhD, professor at University of Tennessee
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A crucial and indispensable text on Buddhist tantra - the most comprehensive system of tantra - is
"Dakini Teachings"
This is worth a whole library of other texts on tantra. It is an essentialized encyclopedia of Buddhist and Tantric practice.
For most people, i.e. newcomers, the book mentioned above, "Heartfelt Advice" by Lama Dudjom Dorjee, is the best place to start, followed by "Dakini Teachings".
These two books provide the essential context for all tantric Buddhist practice.
Dakini Teachings [Paperback]
Padmasambhava (Author), Erik Pema Kunsang (Translator), Nyang-ral Nyima Ozer (Author), Yeshe Tsogyal (Author), Erik Pema Kunsang (Author), Marcia Binder Schmidt (Author)
http://www.amazon.com/Dakini-Teachings-Padmasambhava/dp/9627341363/
"Padmasambhava, the Indian mystic and tantric Buddhist master, is second only to Buddha Shakyamuni as the most famous personage in the Tibetan tradition of Buddhism. In the ninth century, he made the journey across the Himalayan Mountains to establish Buddhism for the people in that country. Now, more than 1,000 years later, we are able to hear and be touched by his voice as contained within this collection of oral advice.
"The selections in Dakini Teachings are timely advice - short, direct instructions relating to the three levels of Buddhist practice: Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. The main emphasis of Padmasambhava's teaching is that spiritual knowledge must be personalized and not remain as mere theory. The book includes an introductory discourse by Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche and a short biography of Padmasambhava by Jamgon Kongtrul the First."
review:
"Yeshe Tsogal and his Holiness Guru Rinpoche cut through the noise of everyday life and have given the human race a profound set of teachings accessible to a new student, but which delivers the most concise exposition on the teachings that I have ever read. This is a book of discussion and practices, and by working through the commentaries and practices, it is almost inevitable that one will develop a profound respect for this amazing being and his most loyal student, Yeshe Tsogal, Princess of Karchen.
"This book was written 1,500 or so years ago by Guru Padma and Tsogyal, who concealed it in code and hid it in a cave. Guru Padma named the individual who would find it generations later.
"The book begins with a foundational set of practices that enable even a novice to develop a different awareness of one's own mind, it's structure, components, and their interaction. The results of those practices are then built upon by succeeding chapters. Buddhism at this level is a profound science of the nature of our minds, how they work, and where the perception of phenomena can become distorted. It also contains advice for the student in how to correct herself or himself within the context of the teachings; an area where most Buddhist books in English are silent.
"In particular, Guru Rinpoche describes the outer, inner, secret, and sublime components of awareness in a way that is accessible to anyone with average or better capacity. For a book that was written so long ago, it is profoundly fresh in most places and even Rinpoche's jokes and wry sense of humor come through completely alive. "
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On Avalokitesvara
North American + European Buddha of Compassion ( Avalokitesvara ) Initiations / How to Expand Lovingkindness and Compassion
http://seattle.tribe.net/listing/North-American-European-Buddha-of-Compassion-Avalokitesvara-Initiations-How-to-Expand-Lovingkindness-and-Compassion/seattle-wa/ffba87db-cfaa-4150-8942-8850cbf80667
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The Short Prayer to Vajradhara, the transcendent source of the Teaching
Great Vajradhara, Tilopa, Naropa
Marpa, Milarepa, and Lord of the Dharma, Gampopa
Knower of the three times, omniscient Karmapa
Lineage holders of the four great and eight lesser schools
Drikung, Taklung, Tsalpa, glorious Drukpa and others,
You who have thoroughly mastered the profound path of Mahamudra
Unrivaled protectors of beings, the Dakpo Kagyü
I pray to you, the Kagyü lamas
Grant your blessing that we may follow your tradition and example.
Detachment is the foot of meditation, it is taught.
Attachment to food and wealth disappears
To the meditator who gives up ties to this life,
Grant your blessing that attachment to ownership and honor cease.
Devotion is the head of meditation, it is taught.
The lama opens the door to the profound oral teachings
To the meditator who always turns to him,
Grant your blessing that uncontrived devotion be born within.
Unwavering attention is the body of meditation, it is taught.
Whatever arises, is the fresh nature of thought.
To the meditator who rests there in naturalness,
Grant your blessings that meditation is free from intellectualization.
The essence of thought is Dharmakaya, it is taught.
They are nothing whatsoever, and yet they arise.
Grant your blessing that the inseparability of samsara and nirvana be realized.
Through all my births, may I not be separated
From the perfect Lama and so enjoy the glory of the dharma.
May I completely accomplish the qualities of the path and stages
And quickly attain the state of Vajradhara (awakened mind).
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Long Life Prayer for HH Karmapa Orgyen Trinley Dorje
http://www.rinpoche.com/lifekarmapa.htm
MI CHÉ TAK PA RANG JUNG CHÖ KYI KU
Naturally arising Dharmakaya, unchanging and ever-present,
GYU TRUL ZUK KYI KUR ZHENG KAR MA PAY
Karmapa, you appear as the form kayas' magical illusions.
SANG SUM DORJÉ KAM SU RAB TEN CHING
May your three secret vajras remain stable in the realms
TA YÉ TRIN LÉ LHUN DRUB PAL BAR SHOK
And your infinite spontaneous activity blaze in glory..
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Sarva mangalam!
Siddhi rastu!
KT
May 28th to June 9th, 2014
Itinerary, Background, and Major Teaching References ( useful any time and anywhere )
http://www.karmapa-germany.de/en/
See also
http://kagyuoffice.org/
See also Karmapa Teachings channel on Youtube
http://www.youtube.com/user/Karmapateachings
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2jdsG2BJ18
Summary: His Holiness the Seventeenth Karmapa Orgyen Trinle Dorje is one of the foremost lineage holders in the Buddhist world, and specifically he leads the Karma Kagyu lineage, one of the lineages that directly descends from the great adept Milarepa. He is held by the Tibetans as being a powerful manifestation of Avalokitesvara, the Buddha of Compassion.
This Spring HH Karmapa visits Europe for the first time, giving major transmissions and addressing secular issues. Parts of this visit will be accessible to all worldwide via webcast.
The current article provides complete details on the schedule and detailed background from official sources ( which I do not represent - KT ). The article includes links to detailed foundational teachings by Very Venerable Thrangu Rinpoche, a principal teacher to HH Karmapa, and two key book references.
See also
Karmapa in Europa 2014 / S.H. der XVII. Karmapa in Deutschland, 28. Mai bis 9. Juni 2014
Live-Übertragung der Veranstaltungen mit S.H. Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje Bewahrer der Buddha-Aktivitäten
at
http://deutschland.tribe.net/thread/9959a203-892a-41c7-95db-43d9daa750aa
With the support granted by the Central Government of India and the Tibetan Administration in Exile, we have the great pleasure and honor to announce the first visit to Europe by His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje.
Between the 28th May and 9th June, 2014 His Holiness will visit Germany in the heart of Europe, where he is expected with great joy. His first, historic journey to the continent will begin at Kamalashila Institute®, his main seat in Europe, and continue to the German capital of Berlin.
The Karma Kagyu Gemeinschaft Deutschland e.V. is delighted to invite all students, friends and interested public to join in this happy occasion and turn it into a successful, festive event.
http://www.karmapa-germany.de/en/live-webcast-2/
Live broadcast of the events with H.H. Karmapa 2014 in Europe
We contacted the Kagyu Office of H.H. Karmapa and can announce, that the events at Kamalashila / Nürburgring* and Berlin / Estrel Convention Center* will be available via Webcast* online.
The website http://kagyuoffice.org will broadcast the Webcast. We will send you the direct link to the webcast, as soon as it is available to us.
Thank you to all people involved for making this possible – it is a great gift!
* The ritual sections of the empowerments will be broadcasted only via audio. Webcast viewers cannot receive the empowerment via the webcast.
PressEMBARGO: APR 22, 08:00 am GMT/UTC
Press release
EU/Tibet/Lama/Buddhism/Environment/social justice/sustainability/Green Buddha
The 17th Karmapa - Face and voice of 21st century Tibetan Buddhism visits Europe
It is with great joy that Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike await the arrival in Europe of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje.The young and charismatic leader of the Tibetan Buddhist Karma Kagyu school will visit Germany between 28th May and 9th June, 2014, on his first ever journey to Europe. The most important stops on this tour will be the European seat of the Karmapas in Langenfeld/Eifel, and the German capital, Berlin. The guiding theme of his fortnight-long programme is "The future begins now!"
During his German tour his programme will include both traditional Buddhist teachings and secular events concerning current social issues such as Buddhism and the environment, the significance of compassion in a globalised world, and an encounter with artists exploring the theme of freedom of thought.
This youthful and charismatic Lama wants to address the young people of his own generation, in order to engender hope and faith in their future, at a time when the problems facing the world may often seem insurmountable and solutions rare.
The Karmapa is far from seeing himself as a religious missionary; rather he sees himself as a voice representing a source of ancient wisdom from the East in an intercultural dialogue with the modern world.
The 17th Karmapa is regarded by many as the future hope of the Tibetan people. He is venerated as the third most significant representative of Tibetan Buddhism, after the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama. Granted refugee status and hospitality by the Government of India, the 28-year old Karmapa lives in the immediate vicinity of the 14th Dalai Lama's exile seat in Dharamsala, North India, and shares a very close relationship with the Tibetan spiritual leader.
Fully supporting the Dalai Lama’s 'middle way' policy of keeping dialogue open with China, the Karmapa himself maintains an apolitical stance, taking no part in active politics. His focus, rather, is on how Buddhist principles such as wisdom, compassion and interconnectedness can be brought to bear on everyday life in the 21st century. He is critical of the culture of consumerism which dominates much of the world today, urging personal responsibility and active engagement for sustainability, and protection of the environment in light of climate change.
He is an advocate of social justice and gender equality and a commentator on other pressing issues in society at large. Having heard of its reputation as an environmentally conscious country, he is especially eager to visit Germany. He is also looking forward to an exchange of views and experiences on major issues confronting society with members of other faiths, particularly Christian leaders. He hopes to exchange views and share experiences that could be beneficial for the daily lives of Tibetans, in exile as well as in Tibet itself.
Throughout the world, the Karmapa has attracted respect and support because he is known to be someone who “walks the talk“, not only advocating change but taking active steps towards the realisation of his vision. He has spoken out frankly about the destruction of the environment and the effects of climate change in his homeland, urging the international community to work together to protect Tibet’s fragile environment, since at least a third of the world’s population depends on water from the Himalayan region. This active commitment earned him the title of 'Green Buddha' when he visited the headquarters of the WWF in Washington in 2011.
As leader of one of the most important lineages in Tibetan Buddhism, the 17th Karmapa embodies 900 years of tradition, yet his focus is increasingly set on the global challenges of the 21st century.
ger/sk/20140422
Contact: Email presse@karmapa-europe.de
International Quotes:
Times-Magazin: The World's Next Top Lama, Karmapa Ugyen Trinley Dorje: the hip-hop lama ready to lead the Tibetan struggle,
Times Asia: A rising Star,
GEO: Der neue Dalai Lama - Ein Erleuchteter in Ausbildung,
GEO: Der einzige Plan B der Tibeter
Le Monde: Le karmapa, le protégé du dalaï-lama,
WWF: The green Buddha
Cinema-Doku: Living Buddha
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ogyen_Trinley_Dorje
Ogyen Trinley Dorje is supported by the majority of the Kagyu hierarchy,[14] including two lamas who have played a role in finding previous Karmapas: Khentin Tai Situ Rinpoche and Goshir Gyaltsab Rinpoche (a fourth such lama, the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul, died early on during the controversy). Orgyen Trinley Dorje has been enthroned at Tsurphu Monastery.
Other high Kagyu lamas who support Ogyen Trinley Dorje include the Ninth Traleg Kyabgon Rinpoche; the Ninth Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche; the Seventh Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche and his Nalandabodhi organization; the Twelfth Surmang Trungpa Rinpoche; the Seventh Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche; the Third Tenga Rinpoche; the Third Bardor Tulku Rinpoche; the Venerable Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche; the Venerable Bokar Rinpoche; the Venerable Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche (abbot of Karma Triyana Dharmachakra); Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and his organization, Shambhala International; the Venerable Drupon Rinpoche, and Lama Norlha Rinpoche, among others. He is also recognized as Karmapa by the current Dalai Lama.
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Introduction to the Kagyu Lineage
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kagyu
The founder of the Kagyu lineage was the Mahasiddha Tilopa (988-1069), who lived in Northern India. He is considered as having received a direct transmission from the primordial Buddha Vajradhara. In this context the Kagyu lineage has originated from the very essence of reality itself and thus transcends all space and time.
Viewed from another level of understanding he also had human teachers, from whom he received four special transmissions, The Four Oral Instructions, for which he became the lineage holder. Some etymologies of the name "Kagyu" consider it as an abbreviation of Lineage of Four Oral Instructions. When Tilopa's transmission is linked directly to Vajradhara, it is called the "direct transmission" but when it is traced to his human teachers, it is referred to as the "indirect transmission."
These teachings were passed from Tilopa to his disciple, the Mahasiddha Naropa (1016–1100) and they were systematised as the Six Yogas of Naropa, meditations that are considered an essential teaching of the Kagyu lineage. Naropa transmitted his knowledge to Marpa Chökyi Lodrö (1012–1097), the great translator, who journeyed from Tibet to India in order to receive instructions and who subsequently returned to Tibet and spread the teachings of the Dharma widely.
Marpa's most important disciple was Jetsun Milarepa (1040–1123). He became one of Tibet's great yogis. His life began in difficult circumstances due to his father's early death, his vengeance upon his dishonest aunt and uncle, and his subsequent regret—which led him to an earnest desire to enter the way of the Dharma. His story is widely known among Tibetans. Through his perseverance and ability to accept all circumstances, he achieved profound realization of the ultimate nature of reality. His teachings are recorded in the 100,000 songs of Milarepa and other collections.
Milarepa's teachings were carried on by Gampopa (1079–1153), the physician from Dakpo. He first studied under the Kadampa tradition, which is a gradual and systematic path. At a later age, he met Milarepa and practicing under him received and realized the true meaning of the complete teachings. Since that time, the lineage has been known as the Dakpo Kagyu. It is from Gampopa that the first Kagyu schools originated: the Karma Kagyu, Tselpa Kagyu, Barom Kagyu, and Phagdru Kagyu.
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The Four Dharmas Of Gampopa
by Thrangu Rinpoche
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings/4dharmas.pdf
"Grant your blessings to myself and all beings that our minds may go to the Dharma.Grant your blessings that the Dharma may become a path.Grant your blessings that the path may clarify bewilderment. Grant your blessings that bewilderment may arise as wisdom."
Despite their brevity, these lines express the entirety of the Buddha's teachings. In this masterful exposition, Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche illuminates their meaning.
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The Very Venerable Khenpo Thrangu Rinpoche
[ A High Abbot of the Karma Kagyu Lineage ]
Large set of teachings openly available at
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings.html
E.G. :
The Four Noble Truths Rinpoche speaks on the first teachings of the Buddha
http://www.rinpoche.com/fornob.html
Buddhist Conduct: The Ten Virtuous Actions
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings/conduct.pdf
The Three Vehicles of Buddhist Practice
http://www.rinpoche.com/teachings/3vehicles.pdf
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S.H. XVII. KARMAPA IN EUROPE 2014
Germany Tour May 28th to June 9th
Kamalashila Institut®, Langenfeld/Eifel May 28th to June 1st
Berlin June 4th to June 9th
Event Organizer: Karma Kagyü Gemeinschaft Deutschland e.V.
Event Program:
FRANKFURT TIBETHAUS
Kaufungerstr. 4, 60486 Frankfurt /M.
May 28th 11:00 AM Press Conference with S.H. XVII Karmapa
KAMALASHILA INSTITUT®
Kirchstr. 22a, 56729 Langenfeld
May 28th 4:00 PM Welcoming S.H. XVII Karmapa in Kamalashila Institut®
June 1st 09:30 AM Inauguration of the Stupa in the Parc of Kamalashila Institut®
NÜRBURGRING
Bitburger Event-Center,
Otto-Flimm-Str., 53520 Nürburg
May 29th 09:30 AM Teaching: The Short Ngöndro – Part I
11:00 AM Teaching: The Short Ngöndro – Part II
03:00 PM Teaching: Guru Yoga Practice
May 30th 09:30 AM Teaching: The Mahamudra Lineage Prayer – Part I
11:00 AM Teaching: The Mahamudra Lineage Prayer – Part I
03:00 PM Empowerment: The 84 Mahasiddhas
May 31st 09:30 AM Empowerment: Dorje Sempa
02:00 PM Empowerment: Medicine-Buddha
BERLIN
Estrel Convention Center,
Sonnenalle, 12057 Berlin
June 5th 07:30 PM Public Talk: Ancient Wisdom for the Modern World - Heart-Advice for a Meaningful Life
June 6th 09:00 PM Visit to Bodhicharya Centre Berlin
14:30 PM Teaching: Mind Training – Taming the Mind and Cultivating Loving Kindness
07:30 PM Public Talk: Buddhism and the Environment – Living in Harmony with our Planet
June 7th 02:30 PM Public Talk: Changing the World from the Inside Out – Love and Compassion for a Globalised World
07:30 PM Teaching: Developing Inner Peace – The Art of Meditation with Cultural Events
June 8th 10:00 AM Empowerment: Karma Pakshi
02:00 PM Young People meet the Karmapa - The Future Is Now:
Today’s Youth are the Hope for a Better Tomorrow
His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje
Upholder of Buddha Activities
http://www.karmapa-germany.de/en/karmapa/
The first Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa (1110-1193) began the system of recognising reincarnate Lamas in Tibet over 900 years ago when he predicted his own rebirth. “Karmapa” in Tibetan means one who upholds the activities of the Buddhas. The Karmapa also founded the Karma Kagyu branch of the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. All sixteen Karmapas became masters with special qualities, highly respected and revered by all the different schools of Tibetan Buddhism and by the people of Tibet and the Himalayan region.
Some of the Karmapas even became teachers to the Mongolian and Chinese Emperors. When the 16th Karmapa fled Tibet and arrived in Sikkim, the King of Sikkim offered him land to build a large monastic centre, which later became Rumtek Monastery.
His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, was born in a remote corner of Eastern Tibet to a nomadic family in 1985. He was found by following instructions contained in a prediction letter left by the 16th Karmapa and his identity was confirmed not only by Tai Situ Rinpoche and Gyaltsap Rinpoche, but also by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. In 1992, the Karmapa was enthroned at Tsurphu, the traditional seat of the Karmapa lineage in Tibet.
Even at an early age, he showed signs of becoming a leader of great strength and learning. He gave his first public empowerment at the age of eight and soon mastered all the teachings that the monks at Tsurphu could offer. He started to guide the renovation of Tsurphu monastery, which was in the process of being rebuilt. He also constructed a shedra, or monastic college, at Tsurphu while guiding monasteries and centres around the world.
The young Karmapa became a magnet for devotees from all over Tibet and many foreign countries. He also started to recognise the reincarnations of other important Kagyu lamas such as Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche.
At the age of fourteen, the Karmapa decided to take the most dangerous and challenging course of action by escaping from Tibet to India for two main reasons. Firstly, he was not allowed to bring his teachers from India to Tibet and could not undertake his traditional training as a spiritual leader. Secondly, the Karmapa saw signs that he would be used against His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
The world gazed in awe when the fourteen-year-old Karmapa arrived in Dharamsala at the beginning of the 21st century and took refuge at the feet of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The Government and people of India accepted him as an honoured guest, and since then he has lived at Gyuto Monastery in Dharamsala, receiving a traditional monastic education and all the necessary transmissions, under the guidance of Kagyu masters and H.H. the Dalai Lama, who appointed Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche as his main tutor.
Besides being a scholar and teacher in all areas of Tibetan Buddhist studies, his poems, paintings, calligraphy, and especially his plays and songs, composed and directed with the artists of the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, are highly appreciated. He enjoys studying the languages and cultures of different Asian and Western civilisations and has taken classes in Sanskrit, Hindi, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and English. He is also interested in modern science and has actively participated in the Mind and Life Conferences with H.H. the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala.
The Karmapa took the responsibility of leading the Karma Kagyu School of Buddhism at an early age and within a short time has brought many reforms and progress in the study and discipline at Karma Kagyu monasteries and nunneries. The Karmapa took the Kagyu Monlam as the main platform for his activities. This yearly prayer meeting in Bodhgaya draws thousands of monks, nuns, and followers from all over the world, and especially from the Himalayan region...
The International Kagyu Monlam Chenmo is a marvel not only for its inspiring prayers but also for its discipline and international participation. The prayers and teachings are simultaneously translated into 12 languages and web-cast worldwide.
In 2007, after several years as a vegetarian, His Holiness asked his monasteries to stop serving any kind of meat in their dining halls. He explained that if we were to have genuine compassion towards animals and the aspiration to ease their suffering, we should also try to do this in practice. At the end of his teaching, thousands of hands rose up from monks, nuns, and of lay people, making a commitment to become vegetarian. This is a wonderful demonstration of the way he teaches by example.
The Karmapa has also made a great difference in the education of the monastic colleges. He has changed the structure of the annual Kagyu Gunchö, the Winter Debates, where the monastic colleges gather together for a month to study and debate Buddhist philosophy. These days the Kagyu Winter Debates include a debating tournament with awards to the best colleges, best individual debaters, and most enthusiastic student. During this time His Holiness gives teachings on an important Kagyu philosophical text and the debates are followed by a three-day conference.
In 2014, the Karmapa made history by instituting an annual Arya Kshema Winter Dharma Gathering for Karma Kagyu nuns and by extending their access to rigorous education for nuns. Around 300 nuns participated. The nuns not only debated but took charge of all activities including rituals, chanting, and disciplining the whole gathering. This is but one of the examples illustrating how the Karmapa works towards empowering women in every field.
In 2009 at a TED conference in Mysore, the Karmapa declared that it is the responsibility of spiritual leaders to take a leading role in addressing such social issues as the environmental crisis and women’s issues. He himself has committed to doing so personally, while also inspiring others to follow suit.
The Karmapa sees environmental protection as synonymous with Dharma practice. He has said that ultimately, he would like Tibetan Buddhist monasteries to become leaders in their own community on environmental issues, especially as the Himalayan communities begin to face the enormous consequences of climate change. In 2009, he founded, and still chairs, Khoryug (“environment” in Tibetan), an association of eco-Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas.
Today, the association consists of over fifty-five Buddhist monasteries and nunneries that implement environmental projects across the Himalayan region. Along with Environmental Guidelines, the association has also produced a popular booklet called 108 Things You Can Do to Protect the Earth. Beyond the Himalayas, he encourages people in the developed world to use fewer resources and to simplify their lives.
The Karmapa is a regular and popular visitor to Tibetan schools and colleges. He has become an example of courage, dedication, and a strong upholder of authentic traditions while staying open to positive modern influences for Tibetans in general and its youth in particular. Tibetans living in Tibet call the Dalai Lama, Panchen Lama, and Karmapa, the sun, the moon, and the star of Tibet. The Karmapa’s engagement with the younger generation has produced two important books: The Future is Now and The Heart is Noble. The Karmapa has said many times that he feels a deep connection with today’s youth and likes to engage them in discussions and dialogue.
The Karmapa has also participated in many inter-religious dialogues and Buddhist conferences where he champions environment issues, women’s issues, youth issues, and promotes non-sectarianism along with respect for all spiritual paths.
He is traditional, authentic, innovative, and artistic in his way of doing things. As an example, in January 2014, he performed the Guru Padma Sambhava lama dance in Bodhgaya, which was done exactly in the most authentic traditional way. However, he invited nuns to take part in the sacred dances, something that had never happened before in the Karma Kagyu tradition. These dances are one of the most blessed and magnificent religious performances in Tibetan Buddhist culture.
His Holiness the 16th Karmapa travelled to many places in Europe and America establishing many centres and groups. Subsequently, followers and supporters of the Karmapa have repeatedly requested the 17th Karmapa to visit them. In May 2008, he made his first trip to the West, traveling to the United States, where he taught at many Dharma centres under his guidance as well as in large halls and arenas. He visited the US again in 2011.
Now, in 2014, he is making his first trip to Europe, fulfilling his long cherished wish to visit the continent. As did his predecessor, the 17th Karmapa also feels a strong personal connection to Europe. He often says that he feels that in one of his former lives, he was born as a farmer in Europe.
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Book Reference on Foundational Buddhist Principles for Newcomers
The following small book, "Heartfelt Advice", is a key text for newcomers to Buddhism. It is written by a Sanskrit scholar, retreatant and tantric abbot, Lama Dudjom Dorjee [ Karma Kagyu lineage ], and he conveys the essential Great Way / Mahayana and tantric Buddhist worldview very directly to all.
"Heartfelt Advice" is a great book because it saves a lot of time and prevents a lot of confusion. The text provides a self-contained, clear, extremely accessible and functional gateway to understanding the overall Buddhist teaching in terms of core classical principles for personal practice.
This book is based entirely on classical teaching of many centuries, and speaks straight to the point, without any casual sidetracks, dilutions or digressions. It is very concentrated and useful long term as a set of continuing reminders for self-managing Buddhists of any Mahayana Buddhist approach in an unsupportive, non-meditative, non-Buddhist muggle culture.
Thus, this book of wise counsel is extraordinarily useful for contemporary western readers. Lama Dudjom Dorje, direct representative of His Holiness the Karmapa, has been teaching in the West for many years, and he ably covers a broad array of topics for all Buddhist practitioners in the simplest and most direct terms.
This book is strongly recommended by major Buddhist teachers guiding many practitioners in the West. All that is required to benefit is straightforward English and a willingness to reflect on oneself, on life, and on karma.
Heartfelt Advice [Paperback]
Lama Dudjom Dorjee (Author)
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Snow Lion; 1 edition (March 16, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1559393467
http://www.amazon.com/Heartfelt-Advice-Lama-Dudjom-Dorjee/dp/1559393467/
"A terrific example of the traditional genre of shal-dam, or life advice, written for contemporary North Americans. This small book touches lightly on profound topics, gently suggesting ways of viewing the world and one's existence in it in a radically new way. The ninety-five short sections—many less than a single page—address foundational ideas of the Buddhist path such as renunciation, impermanence, and cause and effect."—Alexander Gardner, Buddhadharma: The Practitioner's Quarterly
"Heartfelt Advice, from the uniquely qualified scholar and meditation master Ven. Lama Dudjom Dorjee, is a wonderful treasure for Western Dharma practitioners. Anyone who comes into contact with this comprehensive collection of key Buddhist teachings will receive the gift of priceless wisdom." —Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, author of Mind beyond Death [ and tantric Buddhist guru of the Kagyu lineage ]
"Whoever reads this book will receive blessings and benefit. . . . [Lama Dudjom Dorjee] is both scholarly and a highly accomplished practitioner." —Ven. Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche [ tantric Buddhist abbot of the Kagyu lineage ]
"Heartfelt Advice provides a brilliant picture of the depth and breadth of Buddhist meditation. This book is a masterful integration of Buddhist teachings and how they can be applied in difficult life situations. This book provides a unique view formed from his experiences as a Tibetan refuge, Lama scholar, father, and husband. After thirty years of teaching around the world, Heartfelt Advice is a gift to behold." —Dr. William Bradshaw, PhD, professor at University of Tennessee
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A crucial and indispensable text on Buddhist tantra - the most comprehensive system of tantra - is
"Dakini Teachings"
This is worth a whole library of other texts on tantra. It is an essentialized encyclopedia of Buddhist and Tantric practice.
For most people, i.e. newcomers, the book mentioned above, "Heartfelt Advice" by Lama Dudjom Dorjee, is the best place to start, followed by "Dakini Teachings".
These two books provide the essential context for all tantric Buddhist practice.
Dakini Teachings [Paperback]
Padmasambhava (Author), Erik Pema Kunsang (Translator), Nyang-ral Nyima Ozer (Author), Yeshe Tsogyal (Author), Erik Pema Kunsang (Author), Marcia Binder Schmidt (Author)
http://www.amazon.com/Dakini-Teachings-Padmasambhava/dp/9627341363/
"Padmasambhava, the Indian mystic and tantric Buddhist master, is second only to Buddha Shakyamuni as the most famous personage in the Tibetan tradition of Buddhism. In the ninth century, he made the journey across the Himalayan Mountains to establish Buddhism for the people in that country. Now, more than 1,000 years later, we are able to hear and be touched by his voice as contained within this collection of oral advice.
"The selections in Dakini Teachings are timely advice - short, direct instructions relating to the three levels of Buddhist practice: Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. The main emphasis of Padmasambhava's teaching is that spiritual knowledge must be personalized and not remain as mere theory. The book includes an introductory discourse by Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche and a short biography of Padmasambhava by Jamgon Kongtrul the First."
review:
"Yeshe Tsogal and his Holiness Guru Rinpoche cut through the noise of everyday life and have given the human race a profound set of teachings accessible to a new student, but which delivers the most concise exposition on the teachings that I have ever read. This is a book of discussion and practices, and by working through the commentaries and practices, it is almost inevitable that one will develop a profound respect for this amazing being and his most loyal student, Yeshe Tsogal, Princess of Karchen.
"This book was written 1,500 or so years ago by Guru Padma and Tsogyal, who concealed it in code and hid it in a cave. Guru Padma named the individual who would find it generations later.
"The book begins with a foundational set of practices that enable even a novice to develop a different awareness of one's own mind, it's structure, components, and their interaction. The results of those practices are then built upon by succeeding chapters. Buddhism at this level is a profound science of the nature of our minds, how they work, and where the perception of phenomena can become distorted. It also contains advice for the student in how to correct herself or himself within the context of the teachings; an area where most Buddhist books in English are silent.
"In particular, Guru Rinpoche describes the outer, inner, secret, and sublime components of awareness in a way that is accessible to anyone with average or better capacity. For a book that was written so long ago, it is profoundly fresh in most places and even Rinpoche's jokes and wry sense of humor come through completely alive. "
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On Avalokitesvara
North American + European Buddha of Compassion ( Avalokitesvara ) Initiations / How to Expand Lovingkindness and Compassion
http://seattle.tribe.net/listing/North-American-European-Buddha-of-Compassion-Avalokitesvara-Initiations-How-to-Expand-Lovingkindness-and-Compassion/seattle-wa/ffba87db-cfaa-4150-8942-8850cbf80667
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The Short Prayer to Vajradhara, the transcendent source of the Teaching
Great Vajradhara, Tilopa, Naropa
Marpa, Milarepa, and Lord of the Dharma, Gampopa
Knower of the three times, omniscient Karmapa
Lineage holders of the four great and eight lesser schools
Drikung, Taklung, Tsalpa, glorious Drukpa and others,
You who have thoroughly mastered the profound path of Mahamudra
Unrivaled protectors of beings, the Dakpo Kagyü
I pray to you, the Kagyü lamas
Grant your blessing that we may follow your tradition and example.
Detachment is the foot of meditation, it is taught.
Attachment to food and wealth disappears
To the meditator who gives up ties to this life,
Grant your blessing that attachment to ownership and honor cease.
Devotion is the head of meditation, it is taught.
The lama opens the door to the profound oral teachings
To the meditator who always turns to him,
Grant your blessing that uncontrived devotion be born within.
Unwavering attention is the body of meditation, it is taught.
Whatever arises, is the fresh nature of thought.
To the meditator who rests there in naturalness,
Grant your blessings that meditation is free from intellectualization.
The essence of thought is Dharmakaya, it is taught.
They are nothing whatsoever, and yet they arise.
Grant your blessing that the inseparability of samsara and nirvana be realized.
Through all my births, may I not be separated
From the perfect Lama and so enjoy the glory of the dharma.
May I completely accomplish the qualities of the path and stages
And quickly attain the state of Vajradhara (awakened mind).
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Long Life Prayer for HH Karmapa Orgyen Trinley Dorje
http://www.rinpoche.com/lifekarmapa.htm
MI CHÉ TAK PA RANG JUNG CHÖ KYI KU
Naturally arising Dharmakaya, unchanging and ever-present,
GYU TRUL ZUK KYI KUR ZHENG KAR MA PAY
Karmapa, you appear as the form kayas' magical illusions.
SANG SUM DORJÉ KAM SU RAB TEN CHING
May your three secret vajras remain stable in the realms
TA YÉ TRIN LÉ LHUN DRUB PAL BAR SHOK
And your infinite spontaneous activity blaze in glory..
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Sarva mangalam!
Siddhi rastu!
KT
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